"In the 35-minute conversation, Secretary Hagel repeated his praise for the restraint demonstrated by Ukrainian forces in Crimea. He also commended Minister Tenyukh's leadership.

"For his part, Minister Tenyukh updated Secretary Hagel on the situation in Crimea and throughout the country.

"Secretary Hagel re-affirmed the United States' support for Ukraine, stressed that we are actively reviewing Ukraine's request for military assistance materials, and agreed to stay in close contact with Minister Tenyukh moving forward.

"Both leaders agreed on the need to find a diplomatic, peaceful resolution to this crisis."